Gerrard rested for Europe

Steven Gerrard was one of several members of the first-team squad left behind as Liverpool flew out for their Champions League clash against Galatasaray in Istanbul.

Liverpool top their group, giving manager Rafael Benitez the opportunity to rest key men.

Skipper Gerrard, Jose Reina, Sami Hyypia and Steve Finnan were all left behind. None is injured.

Benitez brought in a host of youngsters, including full-back Stephen Darby, captain of last season’s FA Youth Cup-winning side, for his first call-up to the senior squad.

Other youngsters included were Danny Guthrie, Lee Peltier, goalkeeper David Martin and midfielder Miki Roque.

Team (from): Dudek, Agger, Riise, Alonso, Crouch, Fowler, Pennant, Bellamy, Kuyt, Carragher, Paletta, Luis Garcia, Guthrie, Peltier, Darby, Martin, Anderson, Roque.